Keonjhar Gears Up to Become a Major Sports Destination

Bhubaneswar, May 16: The dream of turning Keonjhar into a leading sports hub is finally becoming a reality. After years of delay due to a land dispute, construction of modern sports facilities across the district is all set to begin. The legal hurdles that had blocked development have now been cleared, paving the way for a series of large-scale projects.

The district’s main sports stadium, which had previously hosted cricket matches, was stuck in limbo due to ownership issues. The land, which belonged to the Balunkeswar Trust, could not be developed because of legal restrictions. However, a recent court order (O.A. No-303/2024) has officially transferred 84.59 acres of this land to the government, allowing full-scale construction to proceed.

Chief Minister Mohan Charan Majhi had earlier recognized Keonjhar’s sporting potential during a local sports festival. Taking forward his vision, the district administration has finalized plans and begun initial work in the Sadar area and across all 13 blocks.

A major highlight of the new development is an integrated sports complex to be built in Ranki. With a budget of over ₹30 crore, this complex will include a football academy and training facilities for multiple sports. Kalipadia Stadium in Keonjhar will be converted into a dedicated football stadium at a cost of ₹15 crore. It will have an athletics track, areas for jumps and throws, and even a swimming pool.

In addition, a large government plot behind DN High School has been selected for a new cricket stadium, with a budget of over ₹5 crore. The existing OSME ground will also be upgraded into a modern cricket stadium at a cost of more than ₹10 crore.

Stadium construction preparations have been completed in 12 of the district’s 13 blocks, with land already identified and transferred. Hatadihi is the only block where a suitable government plot is still being finalized.

Once completed, these projects are expected to give a major boost to sports in the region, helping young athletes train in world-class facilities. Keonjhar is on track to become a key center for sports in Odisha, offering new opportunities for the district’s budding talent.